Decision Making in Establishing Instream Flow Needs in Minnesota

Allocation of water for instream use depends upon how well the need and justification for instream flows can be communicated to decision makers. The analysis and presentation of instream flow needs must enable decision makers to evaluate proposals within their frame of reference. The proposed flows should be related to the level and type of resource to be protected. The determination of instream flows must establish credibility by considering water availability as well as hydraulic and biological analyses. The issues facing decision makers in resolving water use conflicts involving instream needs and offstream users or hydropower development in Minnesota are addressed.